Most schools are out for the summer. That means kids are home and looking for fun things to do. After the first week or so, the novelty of being out of school wears off. The familiar statement, “There is nothing to do” returns.
Being active is important, not only for kids. growing minds, but also to settle their bodies’ for physical activity.
If you are a parent or caregiver of a young child out of school, plan to keep your child active during summer vacation.
Physical activity does more than burn calories. It is a great way to decrease stress, build strength, and help kids feel good about themselves. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends children over age 6 be active in physical activity at least 60 minutes every day.
Obesity now affects one in six children and adolescents in the United States, according to the CDC. Obesity is having a BMI above the 95 percentile.
Take an opportunity this summer to ensure your child meets the 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Here are some tips from CDC to get and keep your child active.
First, set a positive example by leading an active lifestyle yourself. Walking, hiking in local parks or playing active games together all count.
Give your child equipment that encourages physical activity. Choose a new ball or Frisbee over a new video game.
Take children where they can be active such as a local park, baseball fields or a basketball court.
Include weight-bearing activity like playing on jungle gyms at a local park.
Turn the TV off after dinner and go for a walk or a bike ride with your child.
If you are still at a loss to find ways to be physically active in your community, call or visit your local library. Often, they have pamphlets and brochures that offer summer programs and times that parks and swimming pools are open.
Here is fun way to break the summer boredom. Write these words down on an index card, or ask your child to write them down. Put the cards in a covered box. Shake up the cards. Each day, ask your child to draw a card. Everyone partakes in the activity, If some cards are not an option, then delete. If you think of more, add them to the list.
Badminton
Basketball
Playing catch
Dancing while playing 10-minute “pick up” (great way to pick up the house).
Fishing
Tag football
Freeze tag
Frisbee
Hiking
Hopscotch
Playing tag in the park
Meanwhile here is a recipe for large bubbles. Have fun and enjoy!
Do-It-Yourself Bubble Solution
1 tbsp. glycerin (ask your local pharmacy)
2 tbsp. dish soap
9 oz. water
Mix it all up (the glycerin added to the mixture is key)
Pour it into small plastic bottles or a pie pan, grab your favorite wand and enjoy big beautiful bubbles.
